Paga Panthers claim Port Moresby Rugby League women’s title

PAGA Panthers claimed the women’s title of the Port Moresby Rugby Football League 2020 season with a 22-6 thumping of Souths at the Oil Search National Football Stadium yesterday.
Experience was a boost for Paga that saw them dominate early on with tries to Naomi Mondowa and Rosewita Kapo.
Hooker Kapo converted both tries for a 12-0 lead 20 minutes into the opening half.
There were some hope for Souths to get back into the game when lock Sister Wai scored a converted try in the 25th for her side to trail 12-6.
Paga had a lion’s share of possession but could not find a way through thanks to some resolute defence by the Souths women.
Souths had a few opportunities to level the scores with fullback Fatima Rama creating space out wide with her pace and evasive ability but poor handling and execution saw those chances go to waste.
Souths failed to carry their momentum in the second half and Paga took over scoring two tries through fullback Mala Mark and second-rower Leila Kerowa to extend their lead to 22-6.
Paga captain Janet Michael told The National that experience proved the difference and enabled her side to stay composed and know when to lift the intensity.
“I think it came down to experience which gave us an advantage and helped us win,” Michael said.
“We have a couple of former Orchids, including myself, and current representatives as well so we were much more composed in the game.
“But credit to our young Paga girls as well, they played well throughout the season and it was a well-deserved win for the team.”
Paga have won all their matches throughout the season.